One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a comfort meal that’s ready in a flash and absolutely bursting with bold flavors, you’re going to fall in love with this One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta. It’s a creamy, luscious pasta dish with tangy sun-dried tomatoes, a fragrant garlic kick, and a velvety sauce that clings to every strand — all coming together in one pan, with minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction. This is the kind of effortless dinner that feels like an indulgence, whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself on a weeknight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the magic behind One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta — every ingredient here plays a vital role, bringing its own punch of flavor, texture, or color to make each bite memorable. With nothing extra to fuss over, each item is a must, so try not to skip anything if you want the ultimate bowl!

• Butter: Adds richness and helps carry all the flavors evenly through the sauce.
• Fresh garlic: Just three cloves bring a gorgeous aroma and a subtle bite that’s never overpowering.
• Chicken stock (or bone broth): The savory backbone for our sauce, turning simple pasta into a full-flavored main dish.
• Half and half or whole milk: Provides creamy texture and softness to balance the tartness of the sun-dried tomatoes.
• Sun-dried tomatoes in oil: These gems deliver tang and a pop of color that makes the pasta sing; drain the oil so the dish doesn’t get greasy.
• Angel hair pasta: Cooks quickly and soaks up all the saucy goodness without getting heavy.
• Parmesan cheese (grated): Brings savory umami and helps the sauce thicken up beautifully.
• Cream cheese (optional): If you love things ultra creamy, a spoonful or two will really do the trick.
• Italian seasoning: All the classics — basil, oregano, rosemary — for depth and a hint of earthiness.
• Freshly cracked pepper: Balances the creaminess with a gentle spicy warmth.
• Salt: Essential for bringing out all the natural flavors and keeping the sauce vibrant.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): Totally up to your spice tolerance — just a sprinkle adds a peppy kick!

How to Make One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic in Butter

Start with a large skillet set to medium-low heat, then melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant — this is your foundation for that irresistible, savory aroma. Watch the garlic carefully; the goal is golden and mellow, not bitter and burnt!

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Pour in the chicken stock next, then add the sun-dried tomatoes (make sure to drain off the oil first!). Sprinkle in your Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you’re feeling brave) and give it all a good stir. Next, slowly pour in the half and half, letting the sauce come to a gentle boil — you’ll see it start to turn creamy right before your eyes.

Step 3: Add the Pasta

Here’s a little trick: Gently lay your angel hair pasta into the bubbling sauce and let it sit in the liquid for about 30 seconds until it softens slightly. This makes it much easier to press down into the pan without snapping the noodles. Use tongs or a spoon to nudge any stray pieces into the sauce so everything cooks together perfectly.

Step 4: Simmer to Creamy Perfection

Let the pasta simmer away in the flavorful liquid for five minutes, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t clump. At this stage, lower the heat to a gentle simmer and add the cream cheese if you want extra richness. Let it melt into the sauce — you’ll notice the texture gets irresistibly creamy, and any harshness from the sun-dried tomatoes softens into pure comfort.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Seasoning

Time for the magic touch: Sprinkle in generous handfuls of grated parmesan. Let it melt right into the pan, seasoning everything with salty umami and bringing the sauce together. Taste and adjust seasoning — a pinch of salt or splash of stock can adjust texture and taste perfectly. Serve your One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta hot and creamy, ideally straight from the pan.

How to Serve One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta

Garnishes

This is your moment to add extra sparkle! Scatter some fresh basil or chopped parsley over the top for a punch of color and freshness. A final shower of parmesan is always welcome, and if you’re a spice fan, a few more red pepper flakes over each serving makes the flavors pop. Even a bit of cracked black pepper right before eating feels a little luxurious.

Side Dishes

One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta is totally satisfying on its own, but if you want a balanced spread, a crisp green salad or a plate of roasted asparagus pairs perfectly. Warm, crusty bread is practically a requirement for mopping up the last bits of sauce, or try simple garlic bread for a double hit of that garlicky magic.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving guests, spoon the pasta into shallow bowls and swirl it into little nests for a restaurant-style touch. Top each bowl with extra sun-dried tomatoes and a lush tangle of microgreens for visual drama. For family-style fun, bring the whole skillet straight to the table and let everyone dig in — nothing feels more inviting!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once everyone’s finished their first round (and maybe a little second helping), let any leftovers cool to room temperature before storing. Transfer your One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days — the flavors almost get richer as they meld together in the fridge.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers for a busy week ahead, portion them into freezer-safe containers. Keep in mind that cream-based sauces can sometimes separate when thawed, but a quick stir and a splash of milk will revive the sauce beautifully. Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but it’ll still be delicious from the freezer for up to one month.

Reheating

To reheat, scoop your pasta into a skillet or saucepan with a splash of milk, stock, or even water to loosen up the sauce. Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently until hot and creamy again. The microwave also works in a pinch; just cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring between each one.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While angel hair works wonderfully for One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta, you can swap in spaghetti, linguine, or even penne — just keep in mind that different shapes may require an extra minute or two of simmering so they become just tender.

What can I use instead of chicken stock?

Vegetable stock is a fabulous substitute if you want to keep things vegetarian. Even water with a touch of extra garlic and seasoning will work in a pinch, though the flavor won’t be quite as deep.

Are sun-dried tomatoes in oil better than dry-packed?

For this recipe, go for sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil; they’re softer, richer, and blend right into the sauce. If you have dry-packed tomatoes, just rehydrate them in hot water before chopping and adding to your One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You sure can! The pasta holds up surprisingly well if you assemble it a day in advance — just cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat with a splash of milk or broth for that fresh-from-the-pan creaminess.

How do I make it extra creamy?

Easy fix! Don’t skip the optional cream cheese, and add an extra splash of half and half if needed. Melting the cheeses in slowly over low heat also ensures the sauce stays smooth and dreamy for your One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for something simple, comforting, and full of Italian flair, give One-Pan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta a go — it’s a true weeknight winner you’ll want to share with everyone you know. You’ll be amazed at how easy and delicious it is, and who knows: it might just become your new signature dish!

Print